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BloodHorse.com Articles for "Sen Damon Thayer"

KY Senate Refuses Pension Funding Measure

The Kentucky Senate Feb. 28 refused to accept a funding measure that would have shifted most revenue from historical race wagering to retirement programs at the expense of the horse industry.

 Thursday, February 28, 2013
KY Senator: Factors Stymie Action on Gaming

KY Senator: Factors Stymie Action on Gaming

A Kentucky lawmaker said a General Assembly vote on a constitutional amendment on casino gambling hinges on several factors, none of which appear to be in place during the current legislative session.

 Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Kentucky ADW Tax Clears House Committee

The Kentucky House Appropriations and Revenue Committee passed legislation authorizing a tax on advance deposit wagering Feb. 12, but it remains to be seen if all parties agree on the language in the measure.

 Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Are Pensions Wild Card in KY Gambling Debate?

Are Pensions Wild Card in KY Gambling Debate?

Two lawmakers in leadership positions in the Kentucky General Assembly said Dec. 10 the issue of expanded gambling remains on the table, but whether a bill materializes depends on Gov. Steve Beshear.

 Monday, December 10, 2012
Thayer Elected to Key Post in Kentucky Senate

Thayer Elected to Key Post in Kentucky Senate

Republican Kentucky Sen. Damon Thayer, who has been involved with most legislation involving the horse industry in recent years, was elected majority floor leader Nov. 28 during a GOP Senate leadership caucus.

 Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Solutions Not Readily Available in Kentucky

Solutions Not Readily Available in Kentucky

That Turfway Park is struggling to fill live racing programs for its 16-day meet is no surprise to horsemen, who believe a "perfect storm" developed in September.

 Monday, September 10, 2012
KY Committee Says New Drug Rules 'Deficient'

KY Committee Says New Drug Rules 'Deficient'

A Kentucky legislative subcommittee, in a surprise vote, found regulations governing equine medication "deficient" Aug. 27, just one week before they are scheduled to take effect.

 Monday, August 27, 2012
Thayer: Senate Vote Must Respect Kentuckians

Thayer: Senate Vote Must Respect Kentuckians

A Kentucky senator who chairs a committee that passed a constitutional amendment on expanded gambling Feb. 22 said he will oppose a call to have the bill voted on by the full Senate Feb. 23.

 Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Kentucky Gaming Amendment to Be Introduced

Kentucky Gaming Amendment to Be Introduced

Legislation authorizing a constitutional amendment on expanded gambling in Kentucky will be introduced the morning of Feb. 14, officials said.

 Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Thayer Reveals Clients, Calls for Gaming Vote

Thayer Reveals Clients, Calls for Gaming Vote

Kentucky Sen. Damon Thayer reaffirmed his support for a constitutional amendment on expanded gambling Feb. 9, and in the wake of allegations he has conflicts of interest, released a client list for his consulting business.

 Thursday, February 09, 2012

KY Gaming Bill Sidetracked by Filing Deadline

A lawsuit over legislative redistricting and the resulting extension of the filing deadline for the November election has stalled action on a constitutional amendment on expanded gambling in Kentucky.

 Thursday, February 02, 2012
Beshear Sticks With Gambling Amendment Plan

Beshear Sticks With Gambling Amendment Plan

Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear said Jan. 31 he expects a casino gambling amendment to be introduced "in a few days," and again accused Republican Sen. President David Williams of attempting to derail the process.

 Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Agreement Reached on KY Gaming Amendment

Agreement Reached on KY Gaming Amendment

The parameters of a constitutional amendment on casino-style gambling in Kentucky have been agreed upon, and legislation will be introduced soon, the governor's office said Jan. 25.

 Wednesday, January 25, 2012
ADW Tax Bill Introduced in Kentucky House

ADW Tax Bill Introduced in Kentucky House

Legislation that would impose an excise tax on advance deposit wagers made by Kentucky residents was introduced in the state House of Representatives Jan. 9.

 Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Thayer, Beshear Meet to Discuss Gaming Vote

Bipartisan efforts to get a constitutional amendment on casino gambling on the 2012 ballot in Kentucky continued Dec. 29 when Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear met with Republican Sen. Damon Thayer.

 Thursday, December 29, 2011
Kentucky Lawmakers Eye Tax on ADW Bets

Kentucky Lawmakers Eye Tax on ADW Bets

The Kentucky General Assembly probably will consider legislation in 2012 that taxes bets made by Kentucky residents through advance deposit wagering systems to bolster the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund.

 Wednesday, November 16, 2011

KY Drug Council Involved in Race-Day Issue

The Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council, citing its statutory mission, will be involved in the debate over race-day medication, officials said May 25.

 Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Kentucky Racing Compact Bill Signed Into Law

Kentucky Racing Compact Bill Signed Into Law

Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear May 2 ceremonially signed into law the Interstate Racing and Wagering Compact legislation sponsored by Republican Sen. Damon Thayer.

 Monday, May 02, 2011
Kentucky Hearing Set for Racing Compact Bill

Kentucky Hearing Set for Racing Compact Bill

Legislation authorizing Kentucky to join the proposed National Racing Compact is scheduled to be heard by the Senate Committee on State and Local Government Feb. 9.

 Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Compact Legislation Pre-filed in Kentucky

Compact Legislation Pre-filed in Kentucky

Republican Kentucky Sen. Damon Thayer has pre-filed a bill that would authorize an interstate racing and wagering compact with Kentucky as a member.

 Monday, December 20, 2010

KY Lawmakers Warming to Racetrack Slots Vote?

There may be growing sentiment in the Kentucky legislature to pass a measure authorizing a constitutional amendment on racetrack gaming, officials indicated after the Nov. 2 election.

 Saturday, November 06, 2010

KY Breed Incentive Changes Being Considered

A Kentucky Horse Racing Commission committee is considering changes to the state's Breeders' Incentive Fund, money for which comes from a 6% sales tax on stud fees.

 Thursday, October 21, 2010
KY Hopes Talk of Aid for Racing Legitimate

KY Hopes Talk of Aid for Racing Legitimate

On the heels of a successful opening weekend at Ellis Park comes word of a few initiatives that, if they come to fruition, could generate or repurpose revenue for Kentucky racing. But will it be enough?

 Monday, July 12, 2010
Amid Turmoil, KY Lawmaker Makes Case for BC

Amid Turmoil, KY Lawmaker Makes Case for BC

As Breeders' Cup considers a future host site schedule complicated by recent actions in California, a Kentucky lawmaker has reiterated the state's favorable tax climate in hosting the World Championships.

 Friday, May 21, 2010
BC Tax Exemption Bill Signed Into Law

BC Tax Exemption Bill Signed Into Law

Legislation offering a financial incentive to Breeders' Cup if it commits to holding the World Championships in Kentucky in 2011, 2012, or both years, was signed into law by Gov. Steve Beshear April 6.

 Wednesday, April 07, 2010
In Kentucky, No Instant Racing Anytime Soon

In Kentucky, No Instant Racing Anytime Soon

Legislation to authorize Instant Racing at Kentucky racetracks apparently won't come up again anytime soon.

 Thursday, March 25, 2010
Thayer Makes Case for Instant Racing Bill

Thayer Makes Case for Instant Racing Bill

Republican Kentucky Sen. Damon Thayer spent more than an hour March 18 in a GOP caucus in an attempt to make a case for Instant Racing via statutory approval.

 Friday, March 19, 2010
KY Horse Industry Aid Bill Derailed--Again

KY Horse Industry Aid Bill Derailed--Again

Legislation to aid the horse industry in Kentucky may be dead after developments in the state capital March 17.

 Wednesday, March 17, 2010
KY Racing Aid Bill Called 'Life Preserver'

KY Racing Aid Bill Called 'Life Preserver'

Legislation authorizing Instant Racing, a tax on advance deposit wagering, and a reduction in the pari-mutuel excise tax sailed through the Kentucky Senate Committee on State and Local Government March 11.

 Thursday, March 11, 2010
Will KY Poll Aid Bill on Expanded Gambling?

Will KY Poll Aid Bill on Expanded Gambling?

A poll indicating strong support for racetrack video lottery terminals -- and even stronger support for a constitutional amendment on the issue -- generated plenty of talk among Kentucky legislators Feb. 3.

 Thursday, February 04, 2010

KY Gaming Referendum Bill Passes Committee

Legislation calling for a constitutional amendment on any expansion of gambling in Kentucky passed a Senate committee Jan. 20 on a predictable party-line vote.

 Wednesday, January 20, 2010
KY Lawmaker Pushes for Instant Racing Opinion

KY Lawmaker Pushes for Instant Racing Opinion

A Kentucky lawmaker has again requested an opinion from the state attorney general as to whether Instant Racing machines are legal under pari-mutuel statutes.

 Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Legislative Showdown Looming in Kentucky

Legislative Showdown Looming in Kentucky

As the Kentucky Equine Education Project vows to continue its legislative push for racetrack gaming, a state lawmaker plans to move forward with his plan for statewide and local option votes on gaming.

 Monday, December 14, 2009

Another Financial Hit Looms for KY Breeders

The Kentucky Breeders Incentive Fund could be reduced by 30% because of declining revenue, while horse farms "can't withstand another year like 2009," Kentucky lawmakers were told Nov. 10 during a meeting of the Joint Subcommittee on Horse Farming.

 Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Thayer Prefiles Amendment on Racetrack VLTs

Republican Kentucky Sen. Damon Thayer has prefiled legislation calling for a constitutional amendment to authorize racetrack video lottery terminals.

 Friday, November 06, 2009
Analysis: Will KY Gaming Plan Muddy Waters?

Analysis: Will KY Gaming Plan Muddy Waters?

Kentucky's horse racing and breeding industry plans to stand its ground in the wake of a proposal for a constitutional amendment on gaming some have characterized as a politically-motivated stall tactic.

 Thursday, October 22, 2009
Racetrack Gaming Issue Heats Up in Kentucky

Racetrack Gaming Issue Heats Up in Kentucky

A Kentucky Thoroughbred breeder said Republican lawmakers plan to push for a constitutional amendment on racetrack gaming, but a spokesperson for the state's Senate leader said that's not the case.

 Tuesday, October 20, 2009

KY Exemption Allows for One-Day Breeders' Cup

Kentucky legislation authorizing a pari-mutuel tax exemption for the Breeders' Cup World Championships was modified to allow for one-day or two-day events and sets a lower purse minimum to qualify for the exemption.

 Friday, July 10, 2009
Thayer Defends Position on KY Gaming Bill

Thayer Defends Position on KY Gaming Bill

Republican Sen. Damon Thayer, under heavy fire from some in the Kentucky horse industry for not being publicly proactive on racetrack gaming legislation, on June 25 outlined his position on the issue and claimed that a "political war" would only hinder the industry.

 Thursday, June 25, 2009

2008 KY Breeders' Incentives Announced

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission announced March 27 the Kentucky Breeders' Incentive Fund will distribute more than $18.7 million in awards for 2008.

 Friday, March 27, 2009
BC Tax Break Passes Kentucky Senate

BC Tax Break Passes Kentucky Senate

A 187-page bill that passed the Kentucky Senate March 13 includes provisions for a tax break for the Breeders' Cup World Championships if the event is held in Kentucky in 2011 or 2012, or 2011 and 2012.

 Monday, March 16, 2009
Tin Cup Needed for KY Racing Commission

Tin Cup Needed for KY Racing Commission

The multi-year quest for a stable funding source for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission took another turn March 10 when legislation to increase the powers of the KHRC unanimously passed a Senate committee. Whether the bill is approved--and whether the commission gets a new funding source--could be determined on the Senate floor.

 Tuesday, March 10, 2009

KY Bill: Use Taxes to Fund Horse Racing

A Kentucky lawmaker is preparing racing-related legislation with a primary goal of funding the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, equine drug testing, and supplements for purses and stakes at the state's racetracks.

 Saturday, January 03, 2009
Pinnacle  Brings Sport Back to Detroit

Pinnacle Brings Sport Back to Detroit

It's hard to believe that just three and a half months after breaking ground, Pinnacle Race Course in Michigan is ready to open its doors to the public July 18.

 Monday, July 14, 2008
Bill: Up to $6 Million for KY Racing

Bill: Up to $6 Million for KY Racing

A Kentucky legislator plans to pre-file a bill for 2009 that would provide dedicated funding for the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority and create a new fund to supplement purses for all breeds at Kentucky racetracks.

 Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Veto of KHRA Assessment Relief Stands

Veto of KHRA Assessment Relief Stands

Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear has vetoed a provision in the state General Assembly's $19-billion budget that would keep smaller racetracks in the state from paying a daily assessment to support Kentucky Horse Racing Authority operations. Legislators on April 15 took no action to override the veto as the General Assembly session came to a close.

 Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Market Said to Be Big Factor for BC

Market Said to Be Big Factor for BC

The Los Angeles media market and its attractiveness to sponsors played a key role in the decision by Breeders' Cup to tab Santa Anita Park as a host site for two consecutive years, Breeders' Cup president Greg Avioli said.

 Friday, February 08, 2008

Tax Equity, KHRA Funding Major Issues for 2008

Kentucky legislators said tax relief for the horse industry and dedicated funding for the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority will be prominent issues when the state General Assembly convenes in 2008.

 Thursday, September 20, 2007

Kentucky Breeder Incentives Could Increase 20%

The Kentucky Breeders Incentive Program, which began offering financial awards for various breeds of horses in 2006, is poised to increase by 20%--to about $18 million or $19 million--next year.

 Monday, September 10, 2007

Sales Integrity Task Force Submits Initial Progress Report

The Sales Integrity Task Force submitted its first report to Kentucky lawmakers at a Joint Interim Committee on Licensing and Occupations meeting June 19 in Erlanger, Ky.

 Tuesday, June 19, 2007
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